Woman visiting Plaza España in Seville

Road trip through southern Spain

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The interior of Spain is full of destinations to discover. A car trip through the south of Andalusia can be an unforgettable experience. The road trip we have proposed below takes in a number of places that are worth stopping off at to explore them thoroughly. 

Seville

A city with the smell of orange blossom and a special color, Seville awaits you with open arms. Here, you can wander the streets to discover renowned sites including the Giralda, a symbol of the city. This bell tower that forms part of Cathedral of Santa María de la Sede offers unique views from its summit. Just a stone's throw from the Cathedral is the Real Alcázar, where visitors can travel years back in time to the 14th century and marvel at its mix of architectural styles. When it comes to sampling typical Andalusian dishes and trying tapas, it doesn't get better than the Triana neighbourhood, just across the River Guadalquivir. A place with a lot of charm and a lot of life. Music in Seville is experienced in the tablaos, where you will see and enjoy the best flamenco. And to get up close and personal with the city's most modern architecture, head to the Setas de SevillaDepending on the time of your visit, you might coincide with one of two major events: the Holy Week and the April Fair

Views of the Giralda, over Seville's houses

Córdoba

In the north of Andalusia, between Seville and Granada, your next stop is Córdoba. In this city you can visit the spectacular Mosque-Cathedral. The entire monumental historic centre was declared a World Heritage Site. So getting lost in its alleys has to be part of your plans. You might come across the Roman bridge, taking you across 16 arches and particularly charming at night, from where you can also see the Calahorra Tower. During the day visit the Alcázar of the Christian KingsIf your trip coincides with spring you can attend the traditional Festival of Patios that bathes the city with flowers. But the festive atmosphere does not stop there, with flamenco art and music just waiting to be discovered at different taverns. While you're there, order a flamenquín (breaded pork loin roll) and a salmorejo (cold soup with a tomato base), two typical culinary specialties from neighbouring Córdoba.

Views of the Roman bridge that crosses the Guadalquivir River and the spectacular Mosque-Cathedral of Córdoba

Úbeda (Jaén)

Your next stop: Úbeda, approximately 56 kilometres from Jaén. Having driven through landscapes populated by olive trees, you will come to this World Heritage City that is definitely worth enjoying at a leisurely pace. Taking Plaza Vázquez de Molina as your starting point, your next stop off is the Chapel of El Salvador. You can even stay in a palace: the Palace of Dean Ortega, now a Parador de Turismo. As your day goes on, you will witness for yourself just how excellently the city's Renaissance complex has been preserved. If you are looking to take something home with you apart from your wonderful memories and picture perfect snapshots, oil or an object from one of the town's many potteries are the most common souvenir. 

Views from the patio in the Chapel of El Salvador in Úbeda, Jaén

Granada

To bring your trip to an end, head to Granada. With Sierra Nevada in the backdrop, this city will be the cherry on the sundae that is your trip. The influence of the city's Moorish era can be clearly felt wherever you look. Starting with the Alhambra —which reigns above all—. This complex is made up of a series of gardens, buildings and patios, with the Courtyard of the Lions worth particular mention. Very close by is the Generalife, a palace formerly inhabited by the Nasrid kings. From the San Nicolás viewpoint you will have a spectacular panoramic view. Another monument that you should visit is the Cathedral. In addition to Granada's monumental wealth, you simply cannot leave the city without exploring the Albaicín, a neighbourhood declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO.

Views of the Alhambra at sunset, Granada